While the sample size of the group was small, this study isn't the first of its kind to yield these results.

According to Indy 100,

Humour can be a coping mechanism for psychological injury - a study among journalists exposed to trauma found a correlation with black humour use, while studies have found that laughter can lead to immediate increases in heart rate, respiratory rate, respiratory depth and oxygen consumption - possibly even helping decrease stress hormones.

Well, this explains why my humor took a turn for the dark side.

When you've been through a lot of death (which I have) or have had near-death experiences yourself, you strangely gain both an appreciation for life and an ability to not take it so seriously.

So the next time you're in the office and someone makes a dark joke, don't be afraid to laugh at it.